Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. As a matter of fact, every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease (Healthfinder.gov). To prevent heart disease and increase awareness of its effects, The Family Health Clinic is proudly participating in American Heart Month.
So what exactly is it that your heart is trying to say?
Take care of me!
Are you at risk for heart disease?
According to Healthfinder.gov, you are at a higher risk if you:
- Have high cholesterol or high blood pressure
- Smoke
- Are overweight or obese
- Don’t get enough physical activity
- Don’t eat a healthy diet
Healthfinder.gov also says that your age and family history affect your risk for heart disease.
Your risk is higher if:
- You are a woman over age 55
- You are a man over age 45
- Your father or brother had heart disease before age 55
- Your mother or sister had heart disease before age 65
Make Changes Starting This American Heart Month
You can make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing heart disease. Controlling and preventing risk factors is also important for people who already have heart disease.
Below are some ways that healthfinder.gov says you can help lower your risk and control heart disease:
- Eat healthy.
- Get active.
- Stay at a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
- Control your cholesterol and blood pressure.
- If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
- Manage stress.
Let’s have a heart to heart…
If you are having questions about heart problems, this information, or if you are at risk for developing heart disease, make an appointment with us by calling 1-800-321-5043.
We have four convenient locations, so that you can receive quality care close to home.
Sources:
https://healthfinder.gov/nho/FebruaryToolkit.aspx
http://www.in.gov/isdh/24970.htm
Keep updated with the Family Health Clinic and the latest community and health news!
